Hall and Oates Pittsburgh Pa

The Pittsburgh Penguins dominated the headlines during their Stanley Cup run this month. When the ice was finally covered after clinching Game 6, PPG Paints Arena capped off a Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame concert stint week on Tuesday night when Hall and Oates followed U2 and Tom Petty earlier in the month. They performed a 16 song set chock full of chart toppers that the crowd knew every word to. After opening with the Mike Oldfield cover of “Family Man” the greatest hits portion kicked into high gear. Hall sported a “Live From Daryl’s House” guitar strap throughout and performed impressive solos all night .Though stereotypically viewed as a backup, Oates is no slouch on guitar, taking lead several times. Given that the duo is a Philly doo wop group at its core, their cover of the Righteous Brothers “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling” was spot on and laced with Motown authenticity.

While the hits all shone brightly and some deep cuts that may have been unfamiliar to man were equally effective and showcased the band’s talent. “Is It A Star” from 1974’s “War Babies” was a surprise and featured John Oates shredding while seated on an amplifier.

Oates said the partnership has worked so well because their philosophy is:” You play your song and I’ll back you up, and I’ll play my song and you back me up.” That’s what we do.

They do it very well. In 1984, the RIAA declared them the most successful duo in rock history, Statistically, they had surpassed such dynamic duos as the Everly Brothers and the Righteous Brothers. They have held onto this title for over 30 years.

Tears For Fears was more a co-headliner than an opener and filled its hour long slot with its signature, spacey, atmospheric 80s glam rock. Opening with their biggest hit, “Evrerybody Wants To Rule The World” they embarked on a 10 song greatest hits trek, and closed with the 80s anthem “Shout.”